Dia Mirza honoured with IIFA 2012 Green Award

Dia has been conscious of and working towards a greener environment right from her childhood. Born to a father who was an industrial designer who refused to take on a lucrative offer from a company to redesign their factory only because he discovered they are spewing effluents in a nearby river was bound to make Dia environmentally conscious.

What started as an assembly directive in school permeated into every quarter of her growing up years and adult life. Turning of the switches of fans,lights,etc each time she left the room to carpooling with her friends to go to school, sports club or a birthday party. Turning of, the tap when she brushed her teeth and not turning on the water heater beyond the time it was needed and if she ever forgot to do so she was reprimanded so sternly that she never forgot again!

The scientists raising alarm bells on the Ozone depletion was possibly the reason that triggered the action in her school and at home, looking back she is extremely grateful to her elders for reacting to this information and for not being passive towards to it.

Dia Mirza said on receiving this honor, "To believe that you can make a difference is the beginning of change, to be recognized for your efforts is the catalyst that inspires you to further be the change that you want to see. I am grateful that IIFA continues to recognize efforts that are made in the direction of making our world a better place to live in, and I hope that I continue to be a small part of a movement that believes in doing their bit for today and tomorrow..."

What made the occasion more special was a personalised message from Justice Verma (Former Chief justice of India and Chairperson, National Human Rights Commission), "Just heard that you have received the IIFA Green Award for your admirable work in the field of Environment protection, which is a fundamental duty of every citizen under Article 51A(g) of the Constitution, though neglected by most. You richly deserve the honour. I have been greatly impressed by your commitment for the cause with maturity far ahead of your age ever since you met me. Hope you continue the good work with the same vigour. Congratulations & best wishes for more future laurels."